The Rising Stars: Jenny Simpson and Morgan Uceny

For nearly three decades, ever since Mary Decker topped the podium at the 1983 World Championships in Helsinki, Finland, the United States has suffered through a dry spell in the 1500 meters. But finally, the drought is over. The United States now has not one but two superstars in the women's 1500.

In September, Jenny Simpson, 25, won gold with a brutal finishing kick at the World Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Daegu, South Korea. Three weeks later, Morgan Uceny, 26, destroyed a stacked field in Brussels, running a 4:00.06—the year's fastest 1500. The two runners have proven that the U.S. could be a serious medal contender at the 2012 Olympics[4].

The runners' near simultaneous rise to the top has engendered mutual respect. "There's this desire to create a rivalry between us," says Simpson. "Instead, this is an opportunity to recognize there are two women who could share the podium." (No American woman has ever won an Olympic medal in the 1500.)

The two readily acknowledge the other's strengths—like Uceny's mastery of tactics. "She's very heady, and she makes a lot of really good decisions during the race," says Simpson, whose own bulldog running style keeps Uceny on constant alert. "She's a huge competitor," says Uceny. "I'm going to have to work hard and be aware of where she is at all times."

For fans eager for an American miracle in London, it's very clear where these athletes are—at the top of their game.